Takeda In-Licenses Hunter Syndrome Candidate

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited TAK and JCR Pharmaceuticals Co Ltd have announced an exclusive collaboration and license agreement to commercialize JR-141 (pabinafusp alfa) for Hunter syndrome (Mucopolysaccharidosis type II or MPS II).
JR-141 is an investigational, next-generation recombinant fusion protein of an antibody against the human transferrin receptor and iduronate-2-sulfatase (IDS) enzyme.
Hunter syndrome is a rare, inherited disorder in which the body does not correctly digest sugar molecules, resulting in the buildup of unbroken molecules in organs and tissues.
Under the agreement terms, Takeda will exclusively commercialize JR-141 outside the U.S., including Canada, Europe, and other regions (excluding Japan and certain other Asia-Pacific countries).
JCR will receive an upfront payment and is eligible to receive additional milestone payments and tiered sales-based royalties.
Specific deal terms were not disclosed.
Takeda also received an option under a separate option agreement, allowing Takeda to acquire an exclusive license to commercialize JR-141 in the U.S. upon completing the Phase 3 program.
Price Action: TAK stock traded 0.92% higher at $16.46 premarket on the last check Thursday.